Navi Mumbai :- In response to the growing concern over heatwaves and the spread of diseases like Dengue, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation has initiated a proactive campaign in collaboration with the Department of Health. The geographical layout of Navi Mumbai, its extensive coastal area, densely populated regions, and shifting demographics have made the prevention of heat-related illnesses and Dengue a top priority.
With this in mind, the Health Department, through the municipal corporation, has launched an effective action plan to prevent the proliferation of these diseases. The plan includes regular surveillance, scheduled weekly spraying of mosquito repellents and chemical fumigation, and systematic research initiatives to identify breeding grounds for disease vectors within households.
Currently, the monsoon season is underway, and there is a continuous absence of rainfall, leading to a substantial increase in suitable conditions for disease vectors like mosquitoes. Consequently, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation has observed a rise in Dengue cases in the region. To address this, they have initiated a “Household Vector Breeding Site Special Research Campaign” from September 15th to 26th, primarily conducted through the city’s Primary Health Centers.
As part of the campaign, 139 workers were assigned to carry out targeted fumigation efforts in identified breeding sites within households. Each worker was tasked with inspecting 150 to 200 homes daily. Through this effort, a total of 72,182 households were visited, with 405 contaminated sites detected. The affected areas were immediately treated with mosquito repellents, while residents of other potential breeding sites were educated on health awareness, aiming to mitigate further disease transmission.
This initiative is an ongoing effort by the municipal corporation to combat heat-related illnesses and diseases like Dengue actively. According to government directives, citizens are encouraged to be proactive in maintaining clean and hygienic environments within their homes and surroundings, as well as to report any cases of Dengue or other heat-related illnesses to the nearest healthcare centers or the municipal corporation for prompt action.
Mr. Rajesh Narvekar, Commissioner of Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation, has extended an invitation to citizens to cooperate in this endeavor and to reach out to the health department and municipal authorities if they identify any cases of Dengue or other heat-related illnesses in their vicinity. This collaborative effort is crucial in ensuring the well-being of Navi Mumbai’s residents during these challenging times.